"Life and Beth" by Alan Ayckbourn (6-9 Oct 2021)
Poster
Our return to the stage after the COVID pandemic
The first shutdown in March 2020 was imposed days before this play's planned opening and seemed the obvious choice to re-start following theatre opening. Well, the set was already built. The mobile phone announcement before the show contained the words "It's good to be back" which was applauded every night. So good to see people again while we get used to going out again. Next stop, Aladdin Alan Ayckbourn’s work is always good value, and this play is no exception.
After 33 years of marriage, Beth is finding widowhood has some surprising advantages - though the descent of her sister-in-law for Christmas isn’t one of them, nor is the mysterious disappearance of Wagstaff. And no, I didn’t choose this play (which was originally cast in January 2020) so that I could play Beth. That is due to the impact of ill-health and a house move on the previous incumbents. |
|
What they say |
“So so good to see SMP back performing live. Ayckbourn’s less known Life & Beth is defo worth seeing. Bryony’s portrayal of a woman not entirely in full-grief (tinged with some relief) of her husband’s death was utterly brilliant. Imogen Measday’s sister-in-law had a delicious ‘pity-party-for-one’ all over her performance and Alastair - a truly confused vicar with the memory of a gnat was super. Congrats to all involved. Get your tickets NOW! Great to see you chaps back on stage. Mwah!” Adrian E
“Great acting, great play. Lovely evening!!” “It was a great play…brilliant acting! ” A Hooker |
Photos |
|
Programme |
| ||
CastBeth Timms (Bryony Wilman)
Connie Bunting (Imogen Measday) David Grinseed (Alastair Dewar) Martin Timms (Peter Price) Ella Packer (Flora Barker) Gordon Timms (Jim Simpson) Policeman (Alastair Dewar) Policewoman (Christine Lee) |
CrewDirector/Producer (Bryony Wilman)
Co-Director (Jane Atkinson) Stage Manager (Christine Lee) Costumes (The Cast) Set and Backstage (George Atkinson, Stuart Campbell) Lighting and Sound (Ian Trowbridge, Utku Er, Chris Jones) Front of House (Members & Friends of St Michael's Players) |
